On Lebanon's crisis.
We call up Rima Majed in Beirut to talk us through the aftermath of the enormous explosion and ensuing protests. How has Lebanon's history since the civil war created such a profound, multi-layered crisis? We cover the desperate economic situation and the October 2019 revolt, before going deep on the politics of sectarianism, the regional scenario impacting Lebanon, the legacy of the Arab Spring, and the risks of foreign intervention.  

Running Order:
Beirut explosion and protests - (07:04)
Lebanese history 1990-today - (23:53)
Economic crisis - (38:05)
Sectarianism - (51:16)
Regional scenario and foreign intervention - (01:04:54)
International solidarity - (01:24:38)

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Readings (all Rima Majed):
Lebanon’s ‘October Revolution’ must go on!, openDemocracy
The Political (or Social) Economy of Sectarianism in Lebanon, Middle East Institute
Financial Collapse, Revolution, and Pandemic: Where are the Unions?, LCPS
Why the Lebanese support the same sectarian leaders, al Jazeera
Lebanon's October Revolution: Hope in the Midst of Crisis, Princeton
Understanding the October Uprisings in Iraq and Lebanon, Global Dialogue ISA